Itinerary suggestions - So. Germany/Austria/No. Italy?

You probably will get a lot of suggestions here, but I would suggest heading to the Fuessen area, and see the German Alps. It is not too far from Munich by train, and then you could hop over to Munich/Salzburg/Vienna. Might want to make Fuessen and Salzburg your hubs, and do some day trips. 3 Days Fuessen area and 4 days Salzburg would get you to a lot of mountains, lakes, and other great nature places and still let you see classic cities.

Clarification- do you mean suggestions in southern Germany and Austria, northern Italy, or all of the above?

Any or all of the above, please.

I agree with Robert. Fussen area/Reutte just over the border in Austria have great sites - natural & historic. Lake Como is also great and you could do that on your way down to Italy via train or car.

Thank you for your ideas.
Does anyone have experience in the area of Villach, Austria?

Hi Jeri,

In additin to the Fuessen area mentioned above, I'd like suggest Mittenwald, Germany. Easy by train and it's a beautiful village with a mountain backdrop. Hall in Tirol, Austria (again, easy by train) would give you a very charming old town with the Alpine scenery of the Innsbruck area.

Paul

Since September is wine harvest season. I would suggest some time on the Rhine and Mosel. Munich is great, so is Salzburg.

As you head South, Hall in Tyrol is interesting for a walk through the center and lunch.

After crossing the Brenner Pass the Ice Man is in Bolzano:

http://www1.american.edu/TED/iceman.htm

We really liked Verona, especially the ampitheater and medieval center.

Venice was great too.

Having traveled quite a bit in Northern Italy, I'd recommend two spots- Aosta and Lake Como.

The Val d'Aosta was the big surprise of our last trip - unbelievable setting, tucked in the northwest corner where Italy, France and Switzerland border...40 minutes to the Matterhorn, 30 mins to Mont Blanc and surrounded by gorgeous, snow capped mountains. The city is very pedestrian friendly and full of interesting history. We stayed at the Milleluci - not cheap, but wonderful (if you have a car).

In Lake Como we stayed in Varenna at Hotel Milano and Hotel du Lac. Milano was the clear winner. Varenna is a sleepy, non-pretentious lakeside village that's a great stepping off point for exploring the lake on the ferry boats and is easy to get to by train from Milan. Relaxing spot withsuper easy access to Bellagio and other attractions.

Have fun wherever you end up!

I second the vote for Venice. I too prefer small towns over cities and and also love the area around Salzburg/Bavaria. BUT, you must see Venice. I think it might be the most beautiful place I've ever seen. You only need two days to get the highlights.